'Pharaoh' is the term we use today to describe the rulers of ancient Egypt.

Where does the word 'pharaoh' come from?

'Pharaoh' is actually a Greek word that is based on an Egyptian word that meant 'great house'. When this word was first used, it referred to the palace of the king and its greatness, not just to the king himself. We use the word 'pharaoh' today to mean the ruler of ancient Egypt.

Did any women become the pharaoh of Egypt?

There was one woman to claim the throne of Egypt, and call herself the pharaoh - her name was Hatshepsut. She claimed that she had the right to rule Egypt. Hatshepsut ruled Egypt for about fifteen years before she was succeeded by her step-son Thutmosis III.